Ravens have encountered a significant drop in quarterback talent behind Lamar Jackson
No one needs to be told or reminded about the brilliance of the Baltimore Ravens' star signal-caller. Lamar Jackson is truly one of the NFL's best and brightest. Sure, he has his detractors. Heavy is the crown, it seems, but let's be honest. It doesn't matter what the two-time MVP accomplishes; there will always be unfounded criticism.
He could win a Super Bowl, or a few. The doubters will always be there. Once one realizes that, the negativity won't bother you as much. One can appreciate what he has done and pay less attention to what he hasn't, but here's a promise. That Super Bowl will come. It's a matter of when, not if.
Lamar Jackson's value is again demonstrated, this time in a preseason game where he didn't take a snap.
This season's journey is underway, and this is now Jackson's eighth in the NFL. One of the Ravens' three preseason games is in the books. The Indianapolis Colts were the backdrop for some angry runs by Keaton Mitchell and an electrifying punt return from LaJohntay Wester.
Rasheen Ali punched in another TD run, and how about the Beau Brade breakout party? He notched a team-high seven total tackles (six solo) in the win.
Notice we didn't mention the quarterbacks. Lamar Jackson didn't play a single snap behind center, and it was obvious. Devin Leary and Cooper Rush combined for five completions on 16 attempts.
The result was 49 yards passing and two interceptions. Both were also sacked once. It was an ugly night for the offensive signal-callers wearing the purple jerseys. Rush's night got off to a disastrous start. On Baltimore's second play from scrimmage, he dropped back and uncorked a beautiful pass to Alex Johnson. There was just one issue. Johnson plays for the Colts.
Leary threw a red zone interception. It's early. No one should panic about the results from one night at the beginning of August, but something we already knew is certainly more obvious. Though Lamar Jackson makes playing the quarterback position look easy, it isn't. It's the toughest job in all of sports.
The Ravens signed Rush to a two-year deal worth $6.2 million that could eventually pay him $12.2 million. Leary represents an $840,000 cap hit. An early lesson has been heard loudly and clearly.
New appreciation has already come for QB1. It's possible to prove one's value without even playing in a game, and Action Jackson has done that. Keep those fingers crossed for a fully healthy and prosperous eighth NFL season.
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